Day 1025

Goldens are sometimes referred to as “Velcro” Dogs. They stick to your side and never want to be separated from their people! A closed door, in our home, is their worst punishment if their human is on the other side! We have numerous gates which seem to help them since they can still follow us with their eyes! I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Years ago, I attended Bemidji State “College” (now a university) for my undergraduate degree. Although it was a great experience, and I grew as a person, there was a certain amount of loneliness involved. The biggest pull toward home was my Nanny who turned 90 right after I headed north. Knowing our time together was limited, I would arrive home on a visit and head next door to get a “Nanny Hug” right away. Leaving was always a tearful event since I knew it might be my last goodbye with my grandmother.

Life is tenuous… we never know what is around the bend. People and animals we desperately love might disappear from our lives in a heartbeat. In some instances, there might be a longer goodbye… I am not sure which is the bigger challenge…I have experienced both in my lifetime.

In the final analysis, what matters is that we love those in our “Life Bubble” as if we may not get another chance. If you live with that philosophy, every visit is a cherished gift. Even those who continue to walk beside us for years should be deeply appreciated. Be present in the moments with those loved ones and file beautiful memories away in your heart. Listen to them without interference and hug them long and fiercely. These “Nannys” in our lives are the food that feeds our hearts.